Benign \Be*nign"\, a. [OE. benigne, bening, OF. benigne, F. b['e]nin, fem. b['e]nigne, fr. L. benignus, contr. from benigenus; bonus good + root of genus kind. See Bounty, and Genus.]

1. Of a kind or gentle disposition; gracious; generous; favorable; benignant.

Creator bounteous and benign. --Milton.

2. Exhibiting or manifesting kindness, gentleness, favor, etc.; mild; kindly; salutary; wholesome.

Kind influences and benign aspects. --South.

3. Of a mild type or character; as, a benign disease.

Syn: Kind; propitious; bland; genial; salubrious; favorable salutary; gracious; liberal.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)